BLUE ASH  The new Sycamore Senior Center is designed to accommodate the needs and interests of today's older population. Planners are keeping in mind a new generation of seniors.

There's not a drab square inch in the $3.8 million facility, from its landscaped grounds to its spacious, handsome interior. A coffee bar greets visitors as they enter the building. Two full-size pool tables provide a popular distraction in the lobby.

The center has a full-service kitchen, which serves a midday hot lunch. Changing eating habits and preferences, said director Ann Shinkle, caused facility planners to add a deli menu with lighter, quicker fare. All food is consumed in a cafe-style space with plenty of natural light. Between 70 and 100 people eat in the senior center each day.

It's a one-of-a-kind facility, said Ms. Shinkle. It's nice to have a nice place for the seniors to come. We're trying to bring nature back into the center, with the high ceilings and big windows, the trees outside.

Members' artwork spills out of the new studio and hangs on many of the walls. Beside the studio is a fitness center and computer lab.

Use of the fitness center is part of the membership cost, which is nice, Ms. Shinkle said. In the computer lab, we offer an introduction to basic computer skills and Internet use, which is a hot topic for the seniors because they want to be able to e-mail their grandkids.

Since the new facility opened early last month, membership has increased, as has the roster of programs and special events hosted by the center.

Volunteer instructor Bob Hawkins added a third session to his woodcarving class because there's so much demand for the class.

Most of the people have started out all new, said Mr. Hawkins. They have progressed along and are now getting into the things they like.

In addition to craft instruction, classes range from philosophy to investment to airplane building. A series of fitness programs includes line dancing and yoga. Then there are the purely social activities, such as field trips and tours.

Membership costs $20 per year. Nominal fees are charged for classes and other activities.

A part of the LifeSphere organization, Sycamore Senior Center provides services such as Meals on Wheels and transportation assistance to qualifying adults in a 17-community area.

Sycamore Senior Center is at 4455 Carver Woods Drive and can be reached at 984-1234.